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In a nutshell: Android’s kernel is predicated on the long-term assist branches of the Linux kernel. LTS releases are important for the well-being of Google’s cellular OS, a lot in order that the corporate determined to increase the assist interval past what was already assured by Linux builders.
Google not too long ago up to date official documentation on Android Frequent Kernels (ACK) with new assist lifetime pledges and refreshed end-of-life (EOL) dates for at present supported kernels. ACKs are the principal branches of the Android Open Supply Undertaking (AOSP), which incorporates Google’s personal Android implementations for third-party firms working within the Android ecosystem.
Beginning in 2017, Linux builders determined to offer six years of assist for LTS releases. That call was later revised, bringing the assist interval again down to 2 years. The LTS Linux kernel is a necessary codebase for Android, as Google selects probably the most safe open-source kernel whereas including extra performance and vendor-specific options required by Android gadgets.
The ACK-Linux LTS relationship is now strengthening due to Google’s direct involvement. The corporate will present extra assist to secure LTS kernels, with most Android variations now being supported for 4 years or extra. Android 14, which is predicated on the Linux 6.1 LTS department, will likely be supported till 2029. In the meantime, the Android 15 kernel (Linux LTS 6.6) will likely be supported till 2028.
The brand new assist coverage will impose extra necessities on third-party distributors. OEM producers launching telephones based mostly on Android 15 or later will now be required to make use of both the 6.1 or 6.6 LTS department of the Linux kernel.
Linux LTS is frequently maintained with safety patches and bug fixes, but it surely does not embody the newest (and doubtlessly unstable) options launched in non-LTS kernel branches.
Google’s official documentation clearly states that “ACKs obtain LTS merges from upstream and bug fixes for Android-specific code.” These Android-specific fixes embody the safety patches the corporate lists in its month-to-month Android Safety Bulletins. Beginning with kernel 6.6, the assist lifetime for the secure (LTS) kernels is 4 years. When kernels are not supported, gadgets working the related Android variations are thought-about “weak” by Google.
Moreover, Mountain View is simplifying the ACK launch cycle. The corporate will now present only a single new ACK department for every kernel launch, which is why Android 15 will solely use the android15-6.6 department.
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